Jan Hebach & Sophie Kloess

Hebach & Kloess

Silversmith

©Axel Heise

Function in its most beautiful form

Sophie and Jan use traditional techniques to create perfect forms
Functionality is a source of inspiration
Each of their pieces is unique

In the workshop of Sophie Hebach-Kloess and Jan Hebach, time appears to stand still in the light of the blacksmith’s hearth. “Since every piece we produce is unique, there is no need for automated processes,” says Sophie, so most of the works are made “as it was done hundreds of years ago, starting with hammer and anvil”. They do, however, use modern techniques wherever it is useful to improve quality, Jan adds. Both have been fascinated with metal since their early childhood and have used this passion to refine their skills over the years. As a design-duo, this married couple has defined an inimitable aesthetic forged in silver.

Interview

©Axel Heise

©Axel Heise

What does functionality mean to you?: It is a source of inspiration since we constantly reflect on our environment, examining the objects that surround us for their function, in order to reinterpret objects of daily use. But it also brings an inevitable aesthetic quality to our work.
In what sense?: In the sense that the form is inherently consistent – every curve, every edge, every straight line is necessary to achieve the desired function and expression. When functionality, durability of the material and aesthetic expression complement each other, it is a well-made piece.
What does craftsmanship mean to you?: Craftsmanship is a means to an end and serves to materialise creativity. The manual process of creating is the decisive sensual process through which the object receives its distinctive expression.
How do you achieve the almost surreal perfection of your work?: A smooth surface is the best way to amplify the expression of a form. For this purpose, the traces of work, such as the traces of thousands and thousands of hammer blows, must be removed. In the end, the creation process can hardly be seen in the finished object.

Jan Hebach & Sophie Kloess are expert artisans: they began their career in 1995